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· 3. Don't Forget the Roots . . . . . . . . . . . Roots are an important cause of trees becoming hazardous. Tree scientist Pascal Pirone reported that in his 30 J'ears of examining tree problems, more than half were traced to root disease or injuries. . Any Signs of Root Decay? Root decay is often insidious and difficult to detect. Noted tree expert Dr. Alex L. Shiga calls the organisms that cause root problems "the sneaky fungi." Sometimes their work in weakening support roots goes completely unnoticed because the smaller feeder roots may go right on absorbing water and lawn fertilizer. Then, suddenly, one day the tree falls over! To detect root decay, look carefully for "mushrooms" on or near the base of the tree. If found, or if root trouble is suspected, have an arborist dig up some roots to sample for decay organisms. ..' .' !. ::. b'~. .~.~.:'.:::'. \: ~;. ,:..:::' :.' . Are Any Roots Severed? Trenching or construction \vithin the root zone is a major cause of hazard trees. The problem is t"\lO- pronged. First, severed roots lose their ability to support the trunk and Cro\\'ll, especially iflocated on the windward side of the tree. Second, severed roots are open wounds that invite decay organisms. See Bulletin No.7 for ideas about saving trees during construction. I\lote: Allowing roots to be cut, then watering and fertilizing to aid rcco\."ery is not a guarantee against decav~ The reason is that deca}' organisms thrive on this treatment. too! f ^[ "'n , ~ ~ , . . . . . . . . A Checklist for Preventing Hazard Trees ~ Inspect your trees carefully several times each year and in all seasons, Annually, have a qualified arborist (See Bulletin No.6) inspect your trees and provide you with a written report. sure the species selected matches the soil and other site characteristics. See Bulletin ./\lo. 4 for other ideas. ""'" VVater deeply during dry periods, slowly applying at least 1" of \",'ater. I;# Erect barriers around or slightly beyond the dripline of trees during construction. Insist that these root protection zones be honored by construction workers. """ Consider cabling or bracing weak forks or branches in older trees of high value. This is work for a professional arhorist. l"" Do not plant trees with narrowly.forked stems. J,;11I VVhere a high value tree may be suspected of develop- ing into a hazard, use landscaping to keep people at a safe distance, This may require techniques such as re-routing walks, moving patio furniture, or planting shrubs and hedges as barriers to foot traffic. Remember: A healthy, vigorous tree that receives regular care is less likely to become a hazard than one that is ignored. Prevention is the best solution to the tree hazard problem. . TREE (In USA BlLlETIN No. 15' Xational Arbor Day Foundation. , "..- Avoid planting brittle species where falling limbs could injure people or property. Some examples: . Silver Maple . Lombardy Poplar . Box Elder . Willows ." Prune trees when they are young (Bulletin No.1) and regularly thereafter. ~ Use correct pruning methods, always making the pruning cut outside the branch collar. l"" Don't allow trees to be topped! "..- Always plant the right tree in the right place. For example, avoid planting large-growing trees under power lines, or too close to your house, and make